I first tried Eggnog with my grandmom on Christmas. At my place, people call it Posset. This drink has become my favorite holiday tradition. It adds simple pleasure to the season.
Contents
Traditional eggnog recipe
Eggnog is a popular drink during Christmas and winter. The drink contains eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and nutmeg. It can be served either non-alcoholic or with spirits like rum, whiskey, or brandy. This drink is a type of flip – one of the 6 basic cocktails.
The drink originated from British posset, a mixture of hot milk, alcohol, and spices. It evolved and became popular in America. Its name comes from “nog,” meaning beer or mugs. It symbolizes warmth and togetherness.
As a kid, I loved the basic Posset, but now I prefer the alcoholic version. Here is how to make Eggnog with alcohol:
Classic Eggnog
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- 1/4 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy You can also use vodka, amaretto, or whiskey (Fireball)
- Additional nutmeg for garnish
- Whipped cream for topping optional
Instructions
- In a separate saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Remove it from the heat.
- To prevent the eggs from curdling, slowly add the warm milk and cream mixture to the egg yolk and sugar mixture, whisking constantly as you pour.
- Stir in the ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and heat it over low heat, stirring constantly. Heat the mixture until it reaches 71°C (160°F). This will ensure that the eggs are cooked and the eggnog is safe to consume. Do not let it boil.
- Remove the eggnog from the heat and stir in the bourbon or rum. Adjust the amount to your preference, and keep in mind that the alcohol will provide a noticeable kick.
- Allow the eggnog to cool to room temperature. Then, cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until it’s thoroughly chilled. Chilling allows the flavors to meld.
- Ladle the eggnog into cups or glasses, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg, and optionally top with whipped cream. Now you can sip it.
Notes
Nutrition
How to pair
Eggnog can complement a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Here are some popular pairings and uses:
- Sweet Pairings
- Chocolate cake pairs with this creamy drink for a rich and indulgent dessert.
- Pumpkin pie is a great option.
- Apple crumble contrasts with a rich, creamy flavor.
- Eggnog cookies are perfect for celebrations.
- Cheesecake combines a smooth texture with festive spices for a seasonal twist.
- Savory Dishes
- Mashed potatoes are a perfect holiday side dish.
- Warm oatmeal becomes a festive breakfast.
- French toast is a flavorful breakfast option.
- Spicy dishes are balanced by the smooth, creamy flavor of eggnog.
- Sushi, especially spicy rolls, makes a great pairing.
- Breakfast and Brunch Options
- Festive waffles with this creamy drink are a seasonal breakfast treat.
- Pull-apart bread is perfect for holiday brunches.
Variations
You can try numerous other types of eggnog to suit different flavors and dietary preferences.
- Rompope is made with egg yolks, almonds, and rum, served chilled.
- Coquito substitutes eggs with coconut milk and cream for a tropical flavor.
- Vegan variant uses soft tofu or dairy-free milk with vanilla and rum.
- Gingerbread version is infused with ginger and includes ginger liqueur.
- Cappuccino Nog combines cappuccino flavors.
- Spiced Chocolate Nog uses bittersweet chocolate and hot chile spices.
- Fireball Eggnog uses cinnamon whiskey and amaretto with a sugar rim.
- Tiramisu Nog blends Kahlua and chocolate shavings for a dessert-like flavor.
- Pumpkin infusion mixes pureed pumpkin with warm spices for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Nutella version blends Nutella with the original base for a sweet hazelnut flavor.
